Warner Bros. Converting “Harry Potter” Films for 3D Blu-ray

Even though Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 is not hitting theaters in 3D on Nov. 19, Warner Bros. is still moving forward to release “Part 2” with the extra dimension next July. Now also comes word from Variety that the studio is converting Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince for 3D Blu-ray.

They have engaged Prime Focus, which converted Clash of the Titans to 3D, to begin working on “Half-Blood Prince.” The trade says they are taking their time this time around due to the backlash the studio got over the work they did for Clash of the Titans.

While work was stopped on “Deathly Hallows – Part 1,” the studio has not ruled out completing the conversion later.

Variety adds that the studio is keeping its 3D plans for the “Harry Potter” backtitles quiet, including street dates for 3D home video and whether there will be a theatrical re-release for the series.

Director David Yates has had creative oversight of 3D on his films, while earlier titles would likely require the involvement of Chris Columbus, Mike Newell and Alfonso Cuaron.